The Manuherikia Valleys Community Trust (MVCT) is rejoicing after securing a $600,000 grant from the Bob Turnbull Trust towards constructing a multi-use community facility on the Omakau Recreation Reserve.

The grant lifts the total raised to $1,710,000, including $1 million from Vincent ratepayers, $80,000 from the Matakanui Combined Rugby Club, and $30,000 from the Omakau Earnscleugh Collie Club, and Omakau and Poolburn schools.

Manuherekia Valleys Community Trust (MVCT) Chair Andrew Paterson said he was “stoked” to receive the good news.

“This is the biggest construction project that the Manuherikia/Ida Valley communities had seen since the Omakau Squash Courts were built in the 1980s and the rugby clubrooms before that,” Andrew said.

“This will be a legacy for future generations and is aimed at bringing together many community groups under one roof.” 

Omakau is a significant funding step closer to replacing ageing facilities with a modern multi-use community hub

Andrew thanked everyone “for the support so far to get the project and the fundraising tally to this point”.

The community will get to see the draft concept plans for the hub at the 125th anniversary Central Otago Show at the Omakau Domain this Saturday (February 11). 

Representatives of the MVCT will be on hand to discuss and take community feedback. 

Trust members will also promote upcoming fundraising activities and gratefully receive any donations from the community or offers of sponsorship for the project.

A report will be presented to the Vincent Community Board in the coming months for design approval and to discuss the next steps for the project.